What is the Minimum Property Standards By-law?

The Minimum Property Standards By-law is a by-law that sets standards for maintenance and occupancy of residential buildings in Saint John. These standards help to ensure the safety, health and well-being of those who live in and use the properties; that is, everyone who lives in the City. The by-law applies to all residential properties in the City. This by-law provides the minimum standards expected for all housing in the City.

Why is it important?

Everyone deserves to live in housing that is safe, healthy and promotes well being. It is important to set minimum standards so that all citizens of Saint John live in housing that protects their personal safety, health and well-being.

What are the most common problems you see?

Some common problems include: • No secondary exits where required, and blocked exits • Unsafe decks, stairs and landings • Bedroom windows that are too small • Smoke detectors that do not work

Will my rent go up?

The Minimum Property Standards By-Law has been in place since 1982. Costs to maintain and fix properties should already be included in any rent.

Will my tax assessment go up?

Will it cost me a lot of money to fix my building?

Who are the inspectors?

All inspectors who conduct Minimum Property Standards inspections are employees of Growth & Community Development Services of the City of Saint John.

What does the inspector do?

The inspector will visit all areas of the building (all dwelling units, services rooms and basements) to ensure that the minimum standards of the Residential Properties Maintenance and Occupancy Code are being met. The inspector will send a list of any violations, called a Notice to Comply, to the property owner and will follow up to make sure the necessary work to bring the property up to the standard is completed.

I've received a Notice to Comply and I don't agree with it.

You can appeal a Notice to Comply to the Saint John Substandard Property Appeal Committee. You must file an appeal within 14 days of receiving the Notice to Comply. The Committee can confirm, modify, rescind or extend the time frame for compliance of the Notice to Comply.

I've received a Notice to Comply and I want to comply but don't know where to start.

You can contact us at 658-2911 and we can assist you evaluating the repair process.

What do I do if I note violations of the by-law where I live?

If you note violations of the by-law or Residential Properties Maintenance and Occupancy Code in your apartment or apartment building, you should first bring these to the attention of the landlord. He or she may not be aware of the problem. If the problems are not remedied, contact the Growth & Community Development Services department at 658-2911. Please note that any disputes between tenant and landlord are best directed to the Office of the Rentalsman at 1-888-762-8600.

Is this for Saint John residents only?

The Minimum Property Standards By-law applies within the City of Saint John boundaries. If you don't live in the City of Saint John and have concerns about your property standards, contact your municipality.

Where can I find more information?

You can contact Growth & Community Development Services at 658-2911 or email saintjohn.ca

What should I be aware of?

A charge can be laid in Provincial Court for not complying with a Notice to Comply. A judge can impose a fine starting at $1000.00 for property owners who are found guilty. If the offense has continued for a period of time, the fine may include an additional amount in the range of $240.00 per day that the offense continues to a maximum fine of $5120.00 per day the offense continues.

• A ticket can be issued for non-compliance with the by-law. For property owners, the ticket amount for non-compliance is $1000.00 • The City of Saint John could opt to fix the problem on the premises, or a part of it. The cost of the remedial work would be billed to the property owner and if the bill is unpaid, becomes a debt due to the municipality. The province can be requested to apply the unpaid bill to the owners property taxes and the cost of carrying out the work can form a lien on the property. • The Notice to Comply can also be registered with Service New Brunswick. This means that the Notice to Comply will follow the property and will be applied to all subsequent property owners from the date the Notice to Comply was first issued.